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Kumar J, Saini DK, Kumar A, Kumari S, Gahlaut V, Rahim MS, Pandey AK, Garg M, Roy J. Biofortification of Triticum species: a stepping stone to combat malnutrition. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 24:668. [PMID: 39004715 PMCID: PMC11247745 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-024-05161-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biofortification represents a promising and sustainable strategy for mitigating global nutrient deficiencies. However, its successful implementation poses significant challenges. Among staple crops, wheat emerges as a prime candidate to address these nutritional gaps. Wheat biofortification offers a robust approach to enhance wheat cultivars by elevating the micronutrient levels in grains, addressing one of the most crucial global concerns in the present era. MAIN TEXT Biofortification is a promising, but complex avenue, with numerous limitations and challenges to face. Notably, micronutrients such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), and copper (Cu) can significantly impact human health. Improving Fe, Zn, Se, and Cu contents in wheat could be therefore relevant to combat malnutrition. In this review, particular emphasis has been placed on understanding the extent of genetic variability of micronutrients in diverse Triticum species, along with their associated mechanisms of uptake, translocation, accumulation and different classical to advanced approaches for wheat biofortification. CONCLUSIONS By delving into micronutrient variability in Triticum species and their associated mechanisms, this review underscores the potential for targeted wheat biofortification. By integrating various approaches, from conventional breeding to modern biotechnological interventions, the path is paved towards enhancing the nutritional value of this vital crop, promising a brighter and healthier future for global food security and human well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitendra Kumar
- National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali-140306, Mohali, Punjab, India.
| | - Dinesh Kumar Saini
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, 141004, India
| | - Ashish Kumar
- National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali-140306, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Supriya Kumari
- University School of Biotechnology, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi, 110078, India
| | - Vijay Gahlaut
- Department of Biotechnology, University Center for Research and Development Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab, 140413, India
| | - Mohammed Saba Rahim
- CSIR - Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, 176061, India
| | - Ajay Kumar Pandey
- National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali-140306, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Monika Garg
- National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali-140306, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Joy Roy
- National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali-140306, Mohali, Punjab, India.
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Verbeecke V, Custódio L, Strobbe S, Van Der Straeten D. The role of orphan crops in the transition to nutritional quality-oriented crop improvement. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 68:108242. [PMID: 37640278 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Micronutrient malnutrition is a persisting problem threatening global human health. Biofortification via metabolic engineering has been proposed as a cost-effective and short-term means to alleviate this burden. There has been a recent rise in the recognition of potential that underutilized, orphan crops can hold in decreasing malnutrition concerns. Here, we illustrate how orphan crops can serve as a medium to provide micronutrients to populations in need, whilst promoting and maintaining dietary diversity. We provide a roadmap, illustrating which aspects to be taken into consideration when evaluating orphan crops. Recent developments have shown successful biofortification via metabolic engineering in staple crops. This review provides guidance in the implementation of these successes to relevant orphan crop species, with a specific focus on the relevant micronutrients iron, zinc, provitamin A and folates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Verbeecke
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Laura Custódio
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Simon Strobbe
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dominique Van Der Straeten
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Strobbe S, Wesana J, Van Der Straeten D, De Steur H. Public acceptance and stakeholder views of gene edited foods: a global overview. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:736-740. [PMID: 36658005 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The increasing popularity of gene editing in plants has prompted research on stakeholder views. Gene edited foods are often more accepted than genetically modified foods, though differences occur within target groups, regions, and products. Nevertheless, marketing challenges related to a lack of familiarity with the technology, labeling, and risk perception remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Strobbe
- Ghent University, Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joshua Wesana
- Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Ghent, Belgium; Food and Markets Department, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Central Avenue, Chatham Maritime, UK; Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Mountains of the Moon University, Kasindikwa Village, Lake Saaka, Fort Portal, Uganda
| | - Dominique Van Der Straeten
- Ghent University, Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hans De Steur
- Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Ghent, Belgium.
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Cuong OQ, Connor M, Demont M, Sander BO, Nelson K. How do rice consumers trade off sustainability and health labels? Evidence from Vietnam. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2022.1010161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionStrategies for increasing rice production in the Asian Mega-Deltas have led to environmental degradation, resource overexploitation, and high greenhouse gas emissions. Certified sustainable production labels can support governments in their efforts to render rice value chains more sustainable by simultaneously fostering planetary and human health. Little is known, however, about how consumers trade off sustainability and health attributes in staple crops such as rice. This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by investigating Vietnamese consumers' preferences and willingness to pay for rice characterized by multi-attribute sustainability and health certification labels.MethodsWe collected empirical data from 410 supermarket consumers in Can Tho, Vietnam using a choice experiment survey. The results were analyzed using a mixed logit model to determine consumers' preferences for sustainability and health traits in rice. Four price levels were used to elicit willingness-to-pay for four certification labels: low-emission, eco-friendly, ethically produced, and low glycemic index rice. By separating the components that make up the concept of sustainability and by including a label related to personal health and diet preferences, we are able to gain an understanding of the value consumers place on attributes that benefit the common good vs. attributes that benefit the individual consumer.ResultsThe results showed that consumers were willing to pay a price premium for all certification labels, with the highest marginal utility assigned to low glycemic index rice.DiscussionCertification of eco-friendly and ethical production generated similar utility levels, while low-emission rice was valued lower, although it still fetched a significant price premium compared to the status-quo option of rice with no certifications. The results of this study can help policymakers and value chain actors develop rice value chains that integrate sustainable production practices as well as foster the nutrition and health of rice consumers.
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Myths and Realities about Genetically Modified Food: A Risk-Benefit Analysis. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12062861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The development and consumption of genetically modified (GM) crops are surrounded by controversy. According to proponents, only molecular biology approaches and genetic engineering tools are realistic food shortage solutions for the world’s ever-growing population. The main purpose of this study is to review the impact of GM products on human, animal, and environmental health. People still reject GM crops not only because of safety concerns, but also for moral reasons. Toxicity, allergies, and possible horizontal gene transfer (HGT) to the environment or to other species have been associated with the marketing of GM products. Moreover, the scarce data available about the long-term implications of using GM crops is another opponent concern. Nevertheless, science has evidenced no harm from GM crops use to date but has, instead, reported several benefits that result from their commercialization, such as economic, environmental, and health benefits for the general public. Legislation and policies about GM product labeling standards are being discussed. To overcome emerging food security challenges, considering quality scientific information is essential rather than leaving the issue and merely moving toward moral discussion. Hence, a risk–benefit analysis is necessary.
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De Steur H, Stein AJ, Demont M. From Golden Rice to Golden Diets: How to turn its recent approval into practice. GLOBAL FOOD SECURITY 2022; 32:100596. [PMID: 35300044 PMCID: PMC8907858 DOI: 10.1016/j.gfs.2021.100596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Following its approval in the Philippines in July 2021, provitamin A-rich "Golden Rice" is set to become the worlds' first commercialized genetically modified crop with direct consumer benefits. Despite supplementation and fortification programs, the burden of micronutrient deficiencies remains high. For Golden Rice to be successful in reducing vitamin A deficiency, it needs to be taken up by food systems and integrated into consumer diets. Despite negative information often being associated with genetic engineering, evidence suggests that consumers react positively to Golden Rice. Thus, it offers policy makers and public health stakeholders a new, powerful option to address micronutrient malnutrition that they can integrate as a cost-effective component in broader nutrition strategies and tailor it to consumers' heterogeneous socio-economic contexts and needs to promote "Golden Diets". For this to happen, the right framing of the pathway from policy to consumption is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans De Steur
- Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alexander J. Stein
- European Commission, Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development, 1049 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Matty Demont
- International Rice Research Institute, Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
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Kamaral C, Neate SM, Gunasinghe N, Milham PJ, Paterson DJ, Kopittke PM, Seneweera S. Genetic biofortification of wheat with zinc: Opportunities to fine-tune zinc uptake, transport and grain loading. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2022; 174:e13612. [PMID: 34970752 DOI: 10.1111/ppl.13612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is an important micronutrient in the human body, and health complications associated with insufficient dietary intake of Zn can be overcome by increasing the bioavailable concentrations in edible parts of crops (biofortification). Wheat (Triticum aestivum L) is the most consumed cereal crop in the world; therefore, it is an excellent target for Zn biofortification programs. Knowledge of the physiological and molecular processes that regulate Zn concentration in the wheat grain is restricted, inhibiting the success of genetic Zn biofortification programs. This review helps break this nexus by advancing understanding of those processes, including speciation regulated uptake, root to shoot transport, remobilisation, grain loading and distribution of Zn in wheat grain. Furthermore, new insights to genetic Zn biofortification of wheat are discussed, and where data are limited, we draw upon information for other cereals and Fe distribution. We identify the loading and distribution of Zn in grain as major bottlenecks for biofortification, recognising anatomical barriers in the vascular region at the base of the grain, and physiological and molecular restrictions localised in the crease region as major limitations. Movement of Zn from the endosperm cavity into the modified aleurone, aleurone and then to the endosperm is mainly regulated by ZIP and YSL transporters. Zn complexation with phytic acid in the aleurone limits Zn mobility into the endosperm. These insights, together with synchrotron-X-ray-fluorescence microscopy, support the hypothesis that a focus on the mechanisms of Zn loading into the grain will provide new opportunities for Zn biofortification of wheat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandima Kamaral
- Centre for Crop Health, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stephen M Neate
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Faculty of Sciences, University of Adelaide, Urrbrae, South Australia, Australia
| | - Niroshini Gunasinghe
- Centre for Crop Health, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul J Milham
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David J Paterson
- Australian Synchrotron, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter M Kopittke
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Saman Seneweera
- Centre for Crop Health, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Agriculture and Food Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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8
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Bairagi S, Gustafson CR, Custodio MC, Ynion J, Demont M. What drives consumer demand for packaged rice? Evidence from South and Southeast Asia. Food Control 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2021.108261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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9
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Tiozon RJN, Fernie AR, Sreenivasulu N. Meeting human dietary vitamin requirements in the staple rice via strategies of biofortification and post-harvest fortification. Trends Food Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2021.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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10
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Van Der Straeten D, Bhullar NK, De Steur H, Gruissem W, MacKenzie D, Pfeiffer W, Qaim M, Slamet-Loedin I, Strobbe S, Tohme J, Trijatmiko KR, Vanderschuren H, Van Montagu M, Zhang C, Bouis H. Multiplying the efficiency and impact of biofortification through metabolic engineering. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5203. [PMID: 33060603 PMCID: PMC7567076 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19020-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ending all forms of hunger by 2030, as set forward in the UN-Sustainable Development Goal 2 (UN-SDG2), is a daunting but essential task, given the limited timeline ahead and the negative global health and socio-economic impact of hunger. Malnutrition or hidden hunger due to micronutrient deficiencies affects about one third of the world population and severely jeopardizes economic development. Staple crop biofortification through gene stacking, using a rational combination of conventional breeding and metabolic engineering strategies, should enable a leap forward within the coming decade. A number of specific actions and policy interventions are proposed to reach this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Van Der Straeten
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Navreet K Bhullar
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Plant Biology, ETH Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hans De Steur
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wilhelm Gruissem
- Department of Biology, Institute of Molecular Plant Biology, ETH Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 2, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
- Advanced Plant Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | - Matin Qaim
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Goettingen, Platz der Goettinger Sieben 5, 37073, Goettingen, Germany
| | | | - Simon Strobbe
- Laboratory of Functional Plant Biology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joe Tohme
- International Center for Tropical Agriculture, CIAT, Cali, Colombia
| | | | - Hervé Vanderschuren
- Tropical Crop Improvement Lab, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium
- Plant Genetics, TERRA Teaching and Research Center, Gembloux Agro-Biotech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Marc Van Montagu
- International Plant Biotechnology Outreach, B-9052, Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Chunyi Zhang
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Howarth Bouis
- International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA.
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Bairagi S, Custodio MC, Durand-Morat A, Demont M. Preserving cultural heritage through the valorization of Cordillera heirloom rice in the Philippines. AGRICULTURE AND HUMAN VALUES 2020; 38:257-270. [PMID: 33642679 PMCID: PMC7884355 DOI: 10.1007/s10460-020-10159-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
For centuries, heirloom rice varieties have been grown on the terraces of the Cordillera Mountains of Luzon, Philippines, terroirs known for their significant historical, cultural, and aesthetic values. However, heritage heirloom rice farming is gradually being abandoned, mainly because of its lower productivity and the struggle of the sector to create a sustainable niche market for heirloom rice by branding its cultural, social, and nutritional values. We propose several demand-side intervention strategies for the valorization of heirloom rice. To support the development of a segmented marketing strategy for heritage farming, we provide evidence on urban consumers' willingness to purchase heirloom rice. We interviewed 500 urban consumers from Metro Manila in July-August 2015, who placed a purchasing bid on a kilogram of heirloom rice. Consumers' bids averaged PHP 72.61 kg-1 (USD 1.60 kg-1), which is less than half its current market price. This explains why heirloom rice struggles to gain market share in urban markets in the Philippines. Given this bid price, we estimate a potential market size of PHP 20.3 billion (USD 443 million) that could be created for heirloom rice and tapped into by heritage farmers. Findings further indicate that women, business owners, and consumers who buy packaged rice and eat pigmented rice are willing to pay more for heirloom rice. Finally, our evidence suggests that proper information framing will be necessary to create demand and support the valorization of heirloom rice to preserve cultural heritage and in situ biodiversity of rice landraces in the Philippines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subir Bairagi
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701 USA
| | - Marie Claire Custodio
- Agri-food Policy Platform, International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), 4031 Los Baños, Laguna Philippines
| | - Alvaro Durand-Morat
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701 USA
| | - Matty Demont
- Agri-food Policy Platform, International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), 4031 Los Baños, Laguna Philippines
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Wesana J, Gellynck X, Dora MK, Muyama L, Mutenyo E, Elizabeth A, Kagambe E, De Steur H. Labeling Nutrition-Sensitive Food Chains: A Consumer Preference Analysis of Milk Products. Front Nutr 2020; 7:158. [PMID: 33043039 PMCID: PMC7522577 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2020.00158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
While nutrition-sensitive value-chain approaches are strongly advocated, studies on consumer preferences for such interventions are lacking. This study aims to fill this gap by examining a nutrition-sensitive chain labeling scheme, using the Ugandan dairy sector as a case. A survey was conducted among 250 consumers, primarily eliciting perceptions of the importance of a nutrition-sensitive chain label compared to nutrition claims/facts. In addition, a choice-based conjoint experiment was designed with nutrition label, brand, fat content, and price as attributes. Findings show that nutrition-sensitive chain labeling was more positively perceived by consumers than by nutrition claims/facts. Ordered logistic regression analysis indicated that BMI, nutrition knowledge, and label use influenced consumers' perceived importance of a nutrition-sensitive chain label relative to sex, age, children, and milk purchase frequency for nutrition claims/facts. This is confirmed by the higher utilities for the nutrition-sensitive chain label in our conjoint experiment. Future research should focus on the integration of nutrition-sensitive chain labeling with existing labels in a way that promotes candid interpretation by consumers. Industrial and policy actors in the agri-food sector can use these findings to innovate and regulate appropriate labeling schemes in the context of nutrition-sensitive value chains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Wesana
- Food and Markets Department, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Xavier Gellynck
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Biosciences Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Manoj K Dora
- College of Business, Arts & Social Sciences, Brunel Business School, Brunel University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy Muyama
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Biosciences Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Emma Mutenyo
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Biosciences Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ahikiriza Elizabeth
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Biosciences Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Edmond Kagambe
- School of Education, Mountains of the Moon University, Fort Portal, Uganda
| | - Hans De Steur
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Biosciences Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Which Choice of Delivery Model(s) Works Best to Deliver Fortified Foods? Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11071594. [PMID: 31337126 PMCID: PMC6683040 DOI: 10.3390/nu11071594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) occur as a result of insufficient intake of minerals and vitamins that are critical for body growth, physical/mental development, and activity. These deficiencies are particularly prevalent in lower-and middle-income countries (LMICs), falling disproportionately on the poorest and most vulnerable segments of the society. Dietary diversity is considered the most effective method in reducing this deficiency but is often a major constraint as most foods rich in micronutrients are also expensive and thereby inaccessible to poorer members of society. In recent years, affordable commodities such as staple foods (e.g., cereals, roots, and tubers) and condiments (e.g., salt and oil) have been targeted as "vehicles" for fortification and biofortification. Despite efforts by many countries to support such initiatives, there have been mixed experiences with delivery and coverage. An important but little understood driver of success and failure for food fortification has been the range of business models and approaches adopted to promote uptake. This review examines the different models used in the delivery of fortified food including complementary foods and biofortified crops. Using a keyword search and pearl growing techniques, the review located 11,897 texts of which 106 were considered relevant. Evidence was found of a range of business forms and models that attempt to optimise uptake, use, and impact of food fortification which are specific to the 'food vehicle' and environment. We characterise the current business models and business parameters that drive successful food fortification and we propose an initial structure for understanding different fortification business cases that will offer assistance to future designers and implementors of food fortification programmes.
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14
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Badejo AA. Elevated carotenoids in staple crops: The biosynthesis, challenges and measures for target delivery. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2019; 16:553-562. [PMID: 30733773 PMCID: PMC6353757 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgeb.2018.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Poverty eradication and global food security are among the targets of world leaders, most especially combating the scourge of hidden hunger. Provitamin A carotenoids cannot be synthesized de novo by human and so it must be taken as part of the diet. The deficiency of which is causing almost 6000 sights to be lost daily in most developing countries because of the monotonous starchy diets lacking substantial amount of carotenoid. Conventional breeding as well as genetic engineering have been used to increase the level of carotenoid in many staples including rice, potato, maize and cassava. While products from genetic engineering are still been subjected to strict regulatory measures preventing the delivery of the products to target consumers, some of the products from conventional breeding are already on the table of consumers. Interestingly, both technologies are crucial to tackling micronutrient deficiencies. This review discusses the role of carotenoid in human, the biosynthesis in plant and some of the staple crops that have been modified for increased carotenoid. Some measures expected of the leaders of the countries in need of these products for safe delivery to the target population after two decades is also highlighted.
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15
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Rehman HM, Cooper JW, Lam HM, Yang SH. Legume biofortification is an underexploited strategy for combatting hidden hunger. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2019; 42:52-70. [PMID: 29920691 DOI: 10.1111/pce.13368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Legumes are the world's primary source of dietary protein and are particularly important for those in developing economies. However, the biofortification potential of legumes remains underexploited. Legumes offer a diversity of micronutrients and amino acids, exceeding or complementing the profiles of cereals. As such, the enhancement of legume nutritional composition presents an appealing target for addressing the "hidden hunger" of global micronutrient malnutrition. Affecting ~2 billion people, micronutrient malnutrition causes severe health effects ranging from stunted growth to reduced lifespan. An increased availability of micronutrient-enriched legumes, particularly to those in socio-economically deprived areas, would serve the dual functions of ameliorating hidden hunger and increasing the positive health effects associated with legumes. Here, we give an updated overview of breeding approaches for the nutritional improvement of legumes, and crucially, we highlight the importance of considering nutritional improvement in a wider ecological context. Specifically, we review the potential of the legume microbiome for agronomic trait improvement and highlight the need for increased genetic, biochemical, and environmental data resources. Finally, we state that such resources should be complemented by an international and multidisciplinary initiative that will drive crop improvement and, most importantly, ensure that research outcomes benefit those who need them most.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafiz Mamoon Rehman
- Department of Biotechnology, Chonnam National University, Yeosu, Chonnam, Korea
- Center for Soybean Research of the Partner State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - James William Cooper
- Institute of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Hon-Ming Lam
- Center for Soybean Research of the Partner State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology and School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Seung Hwan Yang
- Department of Biotechnology, Chonnam National University, Yeosu, Chonnam, Korea
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Strobbe S, Van Der Straeten D. Toward Eradication of B-Vitamin Deficiencies: Considerations for Crop Biofortification. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2018; 9:443. [PMID: 29681913 PMCID: PMC5897740 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2018.00443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
'Hidden hunger' involves insufficient intake of micronutrients and is estimated to affect over two billion people on a global scale. Malnutrition of vitamins and minerals is known to cause an alarming number of casualties, even in the developed world. Many staple crops, although serving as the main dietary component for large population groups, deliver inadequate amounts of micronutrients. Biofortification, the augmentation of natural micronutrient levels in crop products through breeding or genetic engineering, is a pivotal tool in the fight against micronutrient malnutrition (MNM). Although these approaches have shown to be successful in several species, a more extensive knowledge of plant metabolism and function of these micronutrients is required to refine and improve biofortification strategies. This review focuses on the relevant B-vitamins (B1, B6, and B9). First, the role of these vitamins in plant physiology is elaborated, as well their biosynthesis. Second, the rationale behind vitamin biofortification is illustrated in view of pathophysiology and epidemiology of the deficiency. Furthermore, advances in biofortification, via metabolic engineering or breeding, are presented. Finally, considerations on B-vitamin multi-biofortified crops are raised, comprising the possible interplay of these vitamins in planta.
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Glass S, Fanzo J. Genetic modification technology for nutrition and improving diets: an ethical perspective. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2017; 44:46-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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De Steur H, Mehta S, Gellynck X, Finkelstein JL. GM biofortified crops: potential effects on targeting the micronutrient intake gap in human populations. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2017; 44:181-188. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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